A delegation of traders met police officials and demanded actions against the RPI workers within two days, failing which they threatened to observe a bandh in protest. The delegation led by Ramkisan Kalantri pointed out that the RPI workers were forcibly collecting cash and groceries from shopkeepers to finance their party's meeting.

It may be recalled that an office-bearer of the RPI (Athawale faction) Dadabhau Nikam had allegedly assaulted one Dr S G Ohal last week, as the latter resisted compulsory contribution for the Ishara Parishad.

The RPI has organised the meeting in Peth to protest against attacks on Christian tribals. The RPI has chosen the same venue from where the Dharma Raksha Samiti hadissued an ultimatum on January 5 this year to missionaries to leave Peth by March 31.

The Dharma Raksha Samiti had held a Hindu Sammelan in Peth on January 5, close on the heels of an attack on Christian tribals and damage to their church in Kayre Sadadpada village on October 16, 1998 by Hindus. The converts were attacked after they refused to participate in the traditional tribal festival and contribute money and foodgrains for the celebrations.